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Book Bar August Picks: Once Upon a Murder - Gripping Tales of Mystery and Intrigue!



ONCE UPON A MURDER SERIES


BOOK ONE: THE SECRETS WE ESCAPE

by Sherelle Green


A Gripping Tale of Redemption and Romance


It is always a treat to meet and hang out with the Crownes. The Crowne cast of characters will certainly have a legacy amongst its readers.


The author has done a fantastic job balancing the characters' psychological depth with the mystery's tension. As Dr. Echo Hayes delves deeper into Sinceer Crowne's mind, the reader is taken on a journey that blurs the lines between guilt and innocence, love and obsession. The pacing is well-handled, with each revelation pulling the reader further into the story.


The Secrets We Escape is a compelling read that will appeal to fans of psychological thrillers and romance. The exploration of Sinceer's psyche and the forbidden romance building between them enhances the emotional charge and adds to the suspense of the storyline. If you’re looking for a read that delves into the complexities of the human mind while delivering a passionate love story, this one is worth picking up.



BOOK TWO: THE SECRETS WE ESCAPE

by Angela Seals


A Thrilling Ride of Love, Danger, and Corruption


Detective Khalil Kane has always walked the thin line between justice and darkness.

 

The story begins with an intriguing premise: a seasoned detective who has always balanced the scales of justice now finds himself teetering on the edge of chaos. Khalil Kane is a man with layers. He has faced the darkness within himself and the world around him. The reappearance of Willow Harris, a figure from his past, instantly sets the tone for a narrative filled with tension, emotion, and the sense that nothing is as it seems.


Willow Harris emerges as a strong, complex character in her own right. Her struggle to reconcile her feelings for Khalil with the potential danger he represents adds depth to the story. The chemistry between Khalil and Willow is electric, their past connection fueling a passionate yet risky romance. As the mystery unfolds, Willow’s internal conflict mirrors the external chaos, making her journey as compelling as Khalil’s.


The Secrets We Inflate is a gripping tale of love, betrayal, and the high cost of loyalty. It will appeal to readers who enjoy their romances with a side of suspense and their thrillers with a deep emotional core. If you’re looking for a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat while tugging at your heartstrings, this one is definitely worth a read.



BOOK THREE: THE SECRETS WE BREAK

by Sheryl Lister


An Artful Dance of Secrets, Scandal, and Seduction


The story plunges readers into the sophisticated yet shadowy world of Gavin Black, whose life is as meticulously crafted as the art he curates. The disappearance of a high-profile figure, combined with Gavin’s controversial history with this person, sets off a chain reaction that threatens to expose the secrets he has long kept hidden. The tension is palpable as Gavin’s life begins to crumble, with the ever-present threat of scandal looming over him and his beloved gallery.


The Secrets We Break is a captivating blend of romance, mystery, and suspense, set against the evocative backdrop of the art world. Gavin Black is a compelling and mysterious character, and Nadia Dubois is a fierce, relatable heroine whose journey into the shadows of Gavin’s life is thrilling and dangerous at the same time.


The mystery at the helm of the story is well-crafted, with twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end. With its beautiful yet enigmatic pieces, the art gallery becomes almost a character in its own right, a silent witness to the unfolding drama.


If you enjoy stories where secrets are as valuable as the treasures they protect, where love and mystery intertwine in unexpected ways...this one is a must-read.



BOOK THREE: THE SECRETS WE HATE

by Elle Wright

A Haunting Tale of Love, Loss, and Secrets


Knox Young has lost everything, turning him into a shell of the man he once was. He’s spent most of his adult life fighting between the balance of peace and ruin. Now, he's being questioned about the mysterious disappearance of a woman connected to his past. Amid the chaos, the one constant in his shattered world is his high school love, Harlow Pratt.


In THE SECRETS WE HATE journey through the life of Knox Young, a man broken by the weight of loss and regret, and Harlow Pratt, who is no stranger to understanding that her unwavering support has been Knox’s saving grace in his darkest moments. As Knox’s grief intensifies, so does Harlow’s desire to protect him. But who is going to protect her?"


The story explores themes such as grief, redemption, and the complexities of love. Knox’s journey from a man consumed by loss to someone seeking redemption is compelling and relatable. Harlow’s role in this journey, as both, his anchor and protector, adds depth to the narrative, making it more than just a love story. The mystery at the story's heart keeps the reader guessing, with each revelation adding new layers.


Harlow Pratt is the emotional anchor of the story. Her love for Knox has never wavered, even as life has thrown one challenge after another their way. The author captures the depth of Harlow’s commitment, making her a character that readers can root for. Her struggle to be Knox’s protector while dealing with her own fears and uncertainties adds a layer of emotional complexity to the narrative. Harlow’s journey is not just about rekindling a lost love, but also about finding the strength to confront the ghosts of the past that threaten their future.


If you enjoy stories that blend romance with mystery, and characters who must confront their deepest fears to find redemption, this novel is a must-read.


For stories like these; rich with suspense, mystery, and deep emotional currents, I’d suggest pairing it with a wine that complements its dark, complex atmosphere. Tall Dark Stranger would be an excellent choice.



Malbecs  are known for their deep, dark fruit flavors, often with hints of blackberry, plum, and black cherry, as well as subtle notes of chocolate, tobacco, and leather. These flavors echo the intense, shadowy elements of the story, making it a perfect companion as you dive into the intrigue and emotional depth of the narrative.


This wine pairs well with the intensity of the romance and the grim atmosphere of the town, allowing you to immerse yourself in the world of Black River Falls. As you navigate the secrets and betrayals within the story, the rich, velvety texture of a Malbec will heighten the experience, making it a perfect choice for this thrillingly grim tale.









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